Sonny Jim

    Sonny Jim, 69, died on Friday, Oct. 23, 2009, in Grants, N.M. A memorial service was held Oct. 29 in Gallup N.M.
   He was born Dec. 28, 1940, on the Klamath Reservation in Oregon.
   Sonny was a legendary professional American Indian rodeo cowboy. He was All-Around Cowboy in 1969 and 1970, World Champion Indian Bareback Rider in 1970 and World Champion Indian Steer Wrestler in 1982. He was a lifetime member of numerous rodeo associations, and continued to participate in rodeo events professionally to his very last days.
   He was an extraordinary man who lived an adventurous life and was well known in many Native American communities. He was an enrolled member of the Modoc Tribe of Oregon.
   His younger years were spent in Taos, N.M., where he graduated from Taos High School in 1959.
   He entered the rodeo profession and developed a passion for the sport.
   He also toured with the Harlem Globetrotters in Asia.
   He was a band member for famous Country Western singers like Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson.
   He participated in the American Indian Movement of the 1970s. He believed in and practiced all Native American traditions and cultural practices.
   He was a rancher and horseman with many other talents and gifts.
   Sonny was well known for being a generous and caring man, and for helping everyone. He had a special connection with children and mentoring young people. He had many adopted children. He was an inspiration and a legend.
   Survivors included his wife, Roberta “Bobbie” James; daughters, Sharon LaMothe, Shawna Jim-James, Sonalatsa “Sunshine” Jim-Martin, Valara Jim-James and Tasha Jim-James; sons, Robert James, Jamie Scott and Michael Bones; sisters, Doris Hartshorn, Checwa James and Viola James; and 18 grandchildren.
   He was preceded in death by his parents, Clyde and Luella James; and one grandchild, Morgan V. Nez.
   To make a donation or for more information, call (505) 713-0185 or (505) 567-9347.